Baseball star Wander Franco formally charged with sexual abuse against a minor

Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has been formally charged with sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of a minor in the Dominican Republic. The charges stem from an alleged relationship with a 14-year-old girl.

Franco, 23, has been under investigation by Dominican authorities since July 2023 following a complaint alleging sexual relations with the teenager. Authorities have also accused Franco of human trafficking.

The indictment also includes the mother of the child, with prosecutors claiming she was paid thousands of dollars by Franco to overlook the relationship.

Franco last played in a major league game in August 2023 after social media posts suggesting he was involved with a minor went viral. He was placed on administrative leave shortly thereafter.

Despite being on leave, Franco, who signed an 11-year, $182 million contract in late 2021, continues to be paid by the Rays. On the field, Franco was a significant contributor to the Rays’ success, boasting a .282 batting average over three seasons, hitting 30 home runs, and driving in 130 runs.

Franco’s administrative leave is set to expire on July 14, but an extension is likely given the circumstances. The timeline for his next court appearance remains unclear.